Rabbi’s Reflections – Thursday, March 23, 2023
Shalom,
Happy 3rd Anniversary, Rabbi (me) and Jan! That’s right, today is the day. Three years ago, March 23, 2020, the “COVID lockdown” was approaching when we decided in the late morning go get married later that same afternoon. It was thirteen days ahead of our previously planned date of April 4th. Those who could be gathered, did so in the Henschen’s barn/workshop, and there we stood under the Chuppah. Three years later, we delight to agree with Ephesians 3:20, God’s choice is “far beyond all we (could) ask or imagine.”
Sally McClung – A Hero In The Faith
The rest of this RR is a little different… I want to introduce (for some of you, reintroduce) a hero in the faith to you. Mrs. Sally McClung is in South Africa where she has been serving the Lord since 2006. You can read her late husband, Floyd’s, bio here… https://www.ywamassociates.com/memorial/floyd-mcclung/ .
In the midst of Floyd’s five year debilitating illness, Sally has had two bouts with cancer. She is still fighting that second battle. Through Floyd’s illness and her sickness, Sally writes inspiring messages twice a week. Listen to her heart as you read this recent submission and you will agree with me, she is a hero in the faith.
Update From Sally, March 14th, 2023
Dear Praying Friends,
I continue to have “good” days. I can’t tell you how wonderful it feels! Some days my energy is a bit lower, but I still feel good. Thank you for your prayers. I’m experiencing the answers.
When we go through a difficult time (of which I’ve had quite a few in recent years), it’s easy to become discouraged – even despairing. The trials feel heavy, and we may not be able to see the light at the end of the tunnel. The hard time, the suffering, the weights of what we’re experiencing can be utterly overwhelming.
One important lesson I’ve learned is that I can choose victory – even while I’m crying out to the Lord for it. I may not feel it. The situation may not have changed. The weights are still there. But I can declare victory in Jesus name. When I do that, something is released in me that gives me extra grace to walk through the trial. And the Lord’s strength and help begins to flow. He has been so faithful to help me, to bring victory to me time and time again in the hard times. I couldn’t have made it otherwise.
“The Lord is my helper; I will not be afraid. What can man do to me?” Hebrews 13:6
“You give me your shield of victory, and your right hand sustains me; you stoop down to make me great.” Psalm 18:35
“Behold, God is my salvation, I will trust and not be afraid; for the Lord God is my strength and song, and He has become my salvation.” Isaiah 12:2
“The Lord is my light and my salvation; whom shall I fear? The Lord is the strength of my life; of whom shall I be afraid? Psalm 27:1
“The Lord himself goes before you and will be with you; He will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.” Deuteronomy 31:8
I am so grateful for how the Lord has been with me through each trial, each difficult thing. I truly don’t know how people make it without the Lord. I’m glad I don’t have to try that. He is right by my side each day.
Love, Sally
Closing note from Rabbi Michael… Sally’s faith didn’t start with her, it is the blessing of a life of following Yeshua HaMashiach. That same victorious faith is you too, should you say “yes” in your heart to His call on your life. And His call sounds like this, “Follow Me!” Respond with a shout to the Lord, “Yes Lord!”
Daily Bread, reading plan by Lars Enarson (https://www.thewatchman.org/)
Thu 23 Mar-2023 1st of Nisan, 5783 Rosh Chodesh Nissan
Le 4:1-26, Nu 28:11-15 Isa 25-26 Pr 18 Ac 17 (Rev 11)